Definition

Noun: - A conservative faction resistant to change: The term "old guard" refers to a group within an organization, party, or system that is traditional, established, and strongly opposed to new ideas, policies, or reforms. It implies a long-standing, often powerful, group that seeks to preserve the status quo.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The company's old guard resisted the transition to digital workflows.
  • In the political party, the old guard was finally overthrown by younger reformers.
  • The proposal for curriculum reform was blocked by the university's old guard.

Advanced Usage

• "The old guard mentality": A mindset characterized by resistance to innovation and a preference for traditional methods.

  • The project failed due to the old guard mentality in the management team.

• "Clash with the old guard": To come into conflict with the established, conservative members of a group.

  • The new CEO's vision immediately led to a clash with the old guard on the board.

Variants and Related Words

• Establishment (n): The existing power structure or traditional group in control of an institution.

  • He was seen as a rebel fighting against the establishment.

• Traditionalist (n): A person who upholds or adheres to traditional values or practices.

  • The traditionalists on the committee voted against the new policy.

Synonyms

• Conservative faction: A group favoring traditional views and opposing rapid change.
• Reactionaries: People who oppose political or social progress or reform.

Related Phrases

• "Die-hard members": Uncompromising or stubbornly loyal members of a group, often part of an old guard.
  • The die-hard members of the club refused to update the rules.

Related Idioms

• "Set in one's ways": Resistant to change because of long-established habits (describes individuals who might be part of an old guard).
  • The old guard on the council is too set in its ways to consider these new ideas.

Noun

1. a faction that is unwilling to accept new ideas